SYMPOSIUM - Nationalism in Australia, Latrobe University - 22 April 2010 [02.03.2010]
Nationalism in Australia Symposium - 22 April 2010
La Trobe University
Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences
School of Social Sciences
http://www.latrobe.edu.au/socsci/national-symposium.html
From White Australia to multiculturalism, from 'Fortress Australia' to globalisation, from picket fence to demographic diversification, the last few decades have seen dramatic changes in the way 'Australia' is understood. The return of a more exclusionary form of nationalism with the Howard government and some sporadic explosions of extreme reactions (Pauline Hanson and Cronulla) challenged what appeared to be a trend towards an increased acceptance of the 'other' within Australia. After a decade that has seen the country participate in two wars, a persistent anxiety over asylum seekers arriving by boat, the continued failure of Reconciliation and the election of the Rudd government, how are we to think about nationalism in Australia in 2010?
The aim of this symposium will be to discuss the role and place of nationalism in Australia today. Should nationalism remain relevant? Can nationalism be progressive? What are the links between nationalism, patriotism and racism? Can nationalism be considered Left-wing? Has nationalism become crucial in electoral politics?
This symposium will take place at La Trobe University on 22 April 2010. It will be organised into panels focusing on different aspects of Australian nationalism. To stimulate discussion, three 10-minute papers will be delivered at the beginning of each session. It is our hope that an edited book will result from the proceedings.
In association with Professor Robert Manne's Ideas and Society programme, a public debate chaired by Phillip Adams featuring Marilyn Lake, Ghassan Hage, Raimond Gaita and Andrew Markus will take place during lunchtime. This debate will feature key commentators offering different perspectives on Australian Nationalism.
Convenors:
Aurélien Mondon - a.mondon@latrobe.edu.au
Russell Marks - r.marks@latrobe.edu.au
The symposium organisers encourage non-paper givers to take part in the discussions. For organisational purposes, confirmation of attendance would be appreciated. The symposium will be fully catered.